Mike McCarthy, whose job is on the line because of Cowboys’ 5-7 start, still received backing from quarterback Dak Prescott.
Stephen A. Smith not a fan of Dak Prescott backing Mike McCarthy (Image via IMAGO/x)
The Dallas Cowboys are in a disarray following 5-7 start to the season and remain on the verge of losing head coach Mike McCarthy. Barring his first year in Dallas, McCarthy led the Cowboys to consecutive 12-5 seasons and even helped quarterback Dak Prescott bag a $60 million annual paycheck.
Prescott hurt himself and will no longer be available to start for the Cowboys any time soon. In his absence, Cooper Rush won two games to improve the overall win ratio. Yet, even if the Cowboys finish with a winning record, there’s no guarantee McCarthy will still be around for next year.
Prescott wants Cowboys to retain McCarthy for a sixth season. While DICK’S Sporting Goods promotion, the 31-year-old quarterback spoke with the media and claimed McCarthy deserves another shot.
I believe in him wholeheartedly. I don’t want to necessarily get into the nuts and the screws of it all obviously, but I think he definitely deserves a chance—another contract and a chance to coach this team amongst more influence.
Dak Prescott said.
Stephen A. Smith completely disregarded Prescott’s support for McCarthy. The long-time ESPN contributor dismissed the pro bowler’s plea by criticizing him for not doing enough on the film where it mattered the most.
Why don’t you go [Dak Prescott] out there and win for him? Wouldn’t be a discussion. Very, very simple. You’ve been the starting quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys for nine years. You’ve got two playoff victories to show for it.
Stephen A. Smith said during Wednesday’s edition of First Take.
Mike McCarthy acknowledged Dak Prescott’s support as the Cowboys head coach in 2025
McCarthy’s second chance with the Cowboys depends on how the current season ends. If Dallas ends with a .500 record then perhaps it will provide the onus for owner Jerry Jones to extend the 61-year-old’s stay.
One thing is for sure, McCarthy has to win without Prescott at the helm. Furthermore, he appreciates the vote of confidence but at the same time highlighted that he was part of a five-year program that will end after the 2024 season.
I’m not sure what exactly [Prescott] said. But it’s just like anything: we are in year five of a program, we have a lot of excellent things in place, and I think we have some things we can do better.
Mike McCarthy said via CBS Sports.
Jones has also not ruled out the possibility of retaining McCarthy.
He is a proven Super Bowl coach, [an] outstanding coach. He’s gotta great way with people, I know that [because] I am one of the people he deals with.
Jerry Jones said via The Athletic’s Jon Machota.
The NFL schedule will make it very hard for the Cowboys to end on a high note. In Week 14, they play against the Cincinnati Bengals who are -6.5 points favorites to win. They will further face .500 teams including the Buccaneers, Eagles, and Commanders before the season ends.
